The SFSU University Museum, in conjunction with the Museum Studies Program, is excited to present Egypt ● Greece ● Rome: Commerce, Colonies & Conquest Across the Ancient Mediterranean. Inspired by the ancient Gnathia ceramics from Greek colonies in Italy, donated by Ms. Jane Gray Nelson, the exhibition explores the economic and political relationships among major powers in the ancient Mediterranean world. Illustrating the connections between trade and travel throughout the region are objects from the museum’s permanent collection: Roman, Phoenician and Greek coins and pottery; and Egyptian mummies funerary statues and jewelry.

Despite differing philosophies, civilizations thrived in the ancient world by relying upon cross-regional relationships to sustain their population growth, promote military conquests, and develop commercial empires. The introduction of currency led to a globalization across the Mediterranean and an increase in economic exchange that linked Europe, Africa, and Asia. Egypt was the proverbial “bread basket” of the Mediterranean due to its fertile land, while the Greeks used their extensive naval experience to establish settlements across the region. Rome’s expansive empire was founded on the agricultural and commercial successes of Egyptian and Greek civilizations.

Rare Greek treasures, such as silver and bronze coins, are displayed alongside the donated Gnathia pottery, as well as a fully intact Egyptian mummy and Roman coins depicting illustrious emperors and conquerors. The variety of antiquities in this exhibition represents the connections and conflicts among ancient civilizations, demonstrating the beginnings of inter-cultural globalization.